Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was released under investigation Thursday evening after being arrested earlier in the day on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to his past association with convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The man formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York — and the brother of the King of the United Kingdom — was taken into custody during a dawn operation at a property in Norfolk. Police confirmed the arrest involved allegations connected to the sharing of confidential information and potential misuse of public position.
Authorities later announced that the man in his sixties had been released while the investigation remains ongoing. Officials also said searches carried out in Norfolk have concluded. Being released under investigation means no formal charges have been filed, but the case remains active as detectives continue reviewing evidence.
The arrest follows renewed scrutiny after the release of newly surfaced Epstein-related communications in the United States. Those materials reportedly suggested that Andrew may have provided sensitive government information to Epstein during the period when he still held official roles connected to the British state.
Andrew has faced years of controversy over his relationship with Epstein, which led to the removal of his royal duties, military titles, and public patronages as the Royal Family sought to distance itself from the scandal. His public appearances have since been limited, and he no longer represents the monarchy in any official capacity.
The development places additional pressure on the royal institution, particularly as investigators examine whether any official authority or access was improperly used. While details of the alleged misconduct have not been fully disclosed, the focus of the inquiry centers on whether privileged information was shared and whether that could constitute a breach of public trust.
King Charles III addressed the situation, emphasizing that the matter must proceed through the legal system without interference. In a statement, the monarch expressed concern about the allegations while stressing that authorities have the full cooperation of the Royal Household. He underscored that the investigation should follow proper legal procedures and that the law must be allowed to take its course.
The case now moves into a prolonged investigative phase, with police expected to review digital communications, witness accounts, and any documentation tied to the allegations. Legal experts note that release under investigation can last months while prosecutors determine whether charges are warranted.
For now, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains free but under scrutiny, as one of the most consequential royal controversies in recent memory continues to unfold.
